Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) is a program designed to develop the qualities of compassion, empathy, and kindness for others and for oneself. CCT integrates traditional contemplative practices with contemporary psychology and scientific research on compassion. CCT is an eight-week program developed at the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University. The program was developed by a team of contemplative scholars, clinical psychologists, and researchers.

There is a growing body of research which asserts the value of cultivating compassion. As a wholesome state of mind, compassion is essential to individual wellbeing. As an ethical orientation, compassion is also essential for sustaining rich and nourishing relationships. As a social force, it is crucial for addressing global, socio-economic dilemmas.

Not only has cultivating compassion been found to reduce the frequency and intensity of destructive emotions (such as anger and hatred), it is also a sustainable response to the suffering of others, and actually alleviates empathic distress and burnout. Consequently, Compassion Cultivation Training will be particularly relevant to those in health and human services roles who regularly witness suffering in their lives and work. More broadly, the program is of value to anyone challenged by suffering in themselves or in our world.

The Contemplary is pleased and grateful to be able to bring this program to our community, facilitated by Dr Petrina Barson.